He grew up in a time when people still believed in the old saying: spare the 'rod' and spoil the child. [=believed that children should be physically punished for bad behavior in order to be raised correctly]
He has served well as his boss's 'lightning rod'. [=he takes blame or criticism that might have been directed at his boss]
The company has become a 'lightning rod for' the public's anger.
(..) at this point of entry, we're good. I'll go first. Let's go, Marcus. I'm starving. PRIEST : For thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. MARCUS : Father. SERENA : This is the beginning... (..)2009 Terminator Salvation
(..) until there's nothing left. PRIEST: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death... ...I will fear no evil, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. WARDEN: Do you have any last words? MAN : Vanguard, this is Blackjack . (..)2009 Terminator Salvation